James Richard Slack, a name not widely recognized in the annals of American history, played a crucial role in the Civil War. Rising from humble beginnings, Slack’s journey from a civilian lawyer to a Union general exemplifies the resilience, leadership, and dedication that characterized many of the war’s military leaders.

He was born on September 28, 1818, in Bucks County, Pennsylvania. As a youth he finished school and then moved with his family to Dearborn County, Indiana, where he read law. In 1840 he passed the bar and established himself as an attorney in Huntington. His reputation as a fair and competent lawyer earned him respect in the community. He began a political career as the County Auditor and then a State Senator for four sessions prior to the war, demonstrating his commitment to public service.

The eruption of the Civil War in 1861 found Slack, like many others, compelled to act. Despite his lack of formal military training, Slack’s leadership abilities were recognized, and he was appointed colonel of the 47th Indiana Infantry Regiment at its formation in September 1861. The regiment quickly become known for its discipline and effectiveness which resulted in Slack’s promotion to brigade commander.

Slack’s military career began in earnest with his participation in the Union campaigns along the Mississippi River, which were crucial in dividing the Confederacy and securing key supply lines. During the siege and battle of New Madrid, Missouri, in March of 1862, his troops had their first battle experience. Slack’s 1st brigade, including the 47th Indiana, was deployed at 2 a.m. to relieve another unit. The report of their activity says they waded through knee-deep pools of water in a driving rain and fog in silence. Reaching their assigned position they endured enemy fire without engagement. Slack and his brigade were commended for their courage and discipline.

The next significant action in which Slack’s brigade participated was the Battle of Champion Hill followed closely by the Siege of Vicksburg. In the former, the 47th suffered its greatest losses of the war in intense fighting with more than 10 percent of the regiment killed or wounded.

After Vicksburg, Slack and his troops were transferred to the Department of the Gulf, where they participated in the Red River Campaign, which aimed to establish Union control over the vital Red River and support the Union occupation of Texas. Though the campaign ultimately failed to achieve its strategic objectives, Slack’s brigade performed admirably in difficult and often hostile terrain. One of the most notable actions during the campaign was the Battle of Sabine Crossroads on April 8, 1864. Despite a Union defeat, Slack’s leadership and the performance of his men during the chaotic retreat were praised. The 47th Indiana Infantry helped cover the Union withdrawal, preventing a complete rout and allowing many Union forces to escape encirclement.

In recognition of his exemplary service, Slack was promoted to brigadier general in 1864. He continued to serve in the Western Theater of the war, leading troops in various engagements across Louisiana, Arkansas, and Missouri. His leadership was characterized by a strong sense of duty, a commitment to his men, and a strategic understanding of the complexities of war in the rugged and often unforgiving Western territories.

Slack’s last major contribution to the war effort came during the Mobile Campaign in 1865. Aimed at capturing the Confederate stronghold of Mobile, Alabama, the campaign was one of the final large-scale operations of the Civil War. Although Slack’s role was not as prominent as in previous engagements, his leadership and experience were invaluable in the successful Union assault on Spanish Fort and Fort Blakely, leading to the eventual surrender of Mobile.

After the war, Slack returned to Huntington, where he resumed his legal career and continued to be active in public life. He served as a judge in the Huntington Circuit Court and was involved in various veterans’ organizations, reflecting his deep commitment to the men he had led during the war.

Slack passed away on July 28, 1881, on a visit to Chicago, Illinois, and was buried in Mount Hope Cemetery in Huntington. Although less celebrated than some of his contemporaries, General Slack's contributions to the Union war effort were significant. His leadership in critical battles and his ability to maintain discipline and morale among his troops in the face of adversity were key factors in his success.

Slack and his wife, Ann, raised four children. Their home on Guilford Street was donated by the family to the Huntington school system and the site used for a new high school built in 1918. It served as Huntington High School until 1970, and then as Crestview Middle School until 1998. The school was torn down to be used as park space, now known as General Slack Park.